The day before Saul's arrival is a significant moment in the biblical narrative, marking the divine orchestration of events leading to Saul's anointing as the first king of Israel. This event is recorded in 1 Samuel 9, where the providence of God is evident in the seemingly mundane circumstances that lead Saul to the prophet Samuel.

Context and Background

The period of the Judges was characterized by a decentralized tribal confederation, where Israel had no king, and "everyone did what was right in his own eyes" (Judges 21:25). The Israelites, desiring to be like other nations, demanded a king to lead them (1 Samuel 8:5). Despite Samuel's warnings about the implications of monarchy, God instructed him to heed the people's request, indicating that their rejection was not of Samuel, but of God as their king (1 Samuel 8:7).

Divine Preparation

In 1 Samuel 9:15-16 , the text reveals God's foreknowledge and preparation for Saul's arrival: "Now on the day before Saul’s arrival, the LORD had revealed to Samuel, 'At this time tomorrow I will send you a man from the land of Benjamin. Anoint him ruler over My people Israel; he will deliver them from the hand of the Philistines. For I have looked upon My people, because their cry has come to Me.'"

This passage highlights God's sovereignty and His response to the cries of His people. Despite the people's misguided desire for a king, God remains attentive to their needs and orchestrates events to fulfill His purposes.

Saul's Journey

Saul, the son of Kish from the tribe of Benjamin, is introduced as a young man of impressive stature and appearance (1 Samuel 9:1-2). His journey begins with a mundane task: searching for his father's lost donkeys. Accompanied by a servant, Saul travels through the hill country of Ephraim and the land of Benjamin without success (1 Samuel 9:3-4).

As they approach the land of Zuph, Saul considers returning home, but his servant suggests consulting the "man of God" in the nearby town, who is known for his prophetic insight (1 Samuel 9:5-6). This suggestion sets the stage for Saul's encounter with Samuel, demonstrating how God uses ordinary circumstances to fulfill His divine plan.

Samuel's Role

Samuel, the last judge of Israel and a prophet, plays a crucial role in this narrative. God had already informed Samuel of Saul's arrival and his future role as king. Samuel's obedience and readiness to anoint Saul reflect his faithfulness to God's command, despite his personal reservations about the monarchy.

When Saul and his servant arrive in the town, they meet young women drawing water, who direct them to Samuel (1 Samuel 9:11-13). This encounter further illustrates the divine timing and guidance at work, as Samuel is already prepared to meet Saul.

Significance

The day before Saul's arrival is a testament to God's providence and His ability to work through ordinary events to achieve His purposes. It underscores the theme of divine sovereignty throughout the biblical narrative, where God remains in control, even when human desires and actions seem to diverge from His ideal plan.

This event also sets the stage for the complex and often tumultuous reign of Saul, highlighting the tension between human leadership and divine authority. Saul's anointing as king marks a pivotal moment in Israel's history, transitioning from the era of the judges to the establishment of the monarchy.